Downeast Maine
Why visit Downeast
Downeast Maine is a general term used for the eastern costal region of the state. It starts in Ellsworth which is right outside of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park and extends to the Maritime provinces of Canada.
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This area is an outdoor lovers dream. The forests are lush and magical. It feels like breath taking ocean landscapes are waiting around every corner. But it's not only about the outdoors. There
is also no shortage of delicious restaurants and unique breweries and bars.
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Any one who loves the places where the sea meets the forest must visit Downeast Maine. It's sure to be a hit with seafood lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and fishing.
Places to stay in Downeast
Bar Harbor
If you're looking for quaint look no further. Bar Harbor is all kinds of adorable. The harbor is full of yachts and lobster boats, the streets are stacked with shops and restaurants, and islands and mountains are waiting to be explored.
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Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park and is where you want to be if you want to stay as close to the park as possible. The Island Explorer, a free bus shuttle, runs in this area and is a great option to get around on these busy streets.
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This charming area is a favorite for visitors (for a very good reason), so expect some crowded, slightly complicated parking, waits at restaurants and higher prices.
Ellsworth
This little town has a lot to offer. While it's not on Mount Desert Island like the other options, it's not too far from the action. It takes around 30 minutes to drive to Acadia National Park or Bar Harbor.
In the town of Ellsworth, there are delicious food and drink options, cute shops, and a few trails and museums to check out. The Grand theater, (an intimate venue) and Tina's Lumberjack Show (quality family friendly entertainment) are great options to add a little theatrics to your Ellsworth stay.
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It's got a lovely local vibe that feels authentic and welcoming. During the summer months the Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce hosts a concert series in a park on the Union River. And the fact that this town is nestled on the Union River gives it a different feel than some of your other options.
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Ellsworth offers some more affordable options, but a car is a must. It takes quite a while to reach Bar Harbor or Acadia National Park by bus, the Island Explorer doesn't come up this far and ride shares aren't common, so you'll need to drive to neighboring areas.
Northeast Harbor
The Northeast Harbor is home to local families and fishermen and is where you'll find the wealthiest residential neighborhoods on the island. The posh marina is home many beautiful yachts and sailboats adding to the village's allure.
This area is the perfect alternative for those looking for a picturesque and quieter alternative to Bar Harbor. The historic main street features interesting boutiques, shops, art galleries and restaurants. ​It's close to beautiful destinations like the Asticou Azalea Garden, Thuya Gardens and the scenic Sargent Drive.
And the harbor is a jumping off point for many tour boat cruises, including the Mailboat that travels to the Greater Cranberry Islands that are just a short sail away from the harbor.
It's around a 10 minute drive to Acadia National Park and around a 20 minute drive to Bar Harbor. The Island Explorer, the free bus shuttle, also runs here.
Things to do in Downeast
Check out some of our favorite things to do while we're in Downeast Maine.